LOS ANGELES—When
it comes to the weekend jaunt, most folks would probably say that packing for
it should be easy. It’s just a couple of days, so you don’t need much,
right? Wrong! I find a two-day trip even harder to pack for
than a longer trip: I spend twice as much time selectively editing my packables
just so I can avoid my traveling companion’s stare when I show up with anything
more than a purse. I run through all potential weekend activities in my
mind beforehand, packing items for every conceivable situation, even though,
chances are, I’ll be lucky to fit in even 30 percent of those ideas (whereas in
a week’s vacation, I’m pretty sure I’d fit in most).

What if I want to work out? I
need trainers and workout gear. Nice dinner out? Add a dress and
heels plus matching jewelry and sweater. I also want a comfortable travel
outfit. Maybe include a belt, socks and a jacket.

Oh, and I need my
camera and camera charger. And cell phone charger. Without
question, the laptop’s getting packed in its own bag with yet another charger
tucked inside. Might as well also throw that “to do” folder of paperwork
in there too, in case I have some down time, as well some catch-up
reading material for the beach. An iPod to listen to tunes whilst doing any of
that. iPod charger. Earbuds. Speakers for playing the iPod in
the room. Need a purse for going out at night, and a larger purse that
serves as a beach/day bag (in addition to the laptop, toiletry, jewelry and
clothing bags). Plus, I need make-up, hair and skin products. Nail
polish for touch-ups. Polish remover for screw-ups. Make-up
remover. Saline solution. Contacts’ case. Glasses for when my
contacts aren’t in.

All my usual purse contents: Kleenex, mints, wallet,
phone. The rest of my normal toiletries: toothbrush, deodorant,
etc. Sleeping attire. And that “wild card” of a thing that
everyone travels with that’s unique to them. For me, it’s flavored green tea
and sweeteners. For others, it might be their own pillow, teddy bear, puffy
coat, alarm clock, personal valet or their very own private jet.

Fifty years ago, gals could get away with two outfits, one pair of shoes,
lipstick and a purse for a weekend. But, in today’s fashion-forward,
plugged-in society, that concept no longer works. Most people I know want
to look as fresh, attractive and stylish—and be as connected to home and work—when
they travel, as when they’re home. And that takes accessories. Lots
of accessories.

So, please: next time someone you know shows up for a weekend away with more than one bag. Don’t scoff. These days, traveling “heavy” is the only chic
way to go away on weekends.

About the Author: A former Hollywood producer and
now second-generation travel professional, Susan Michelle travels the planet as
the “face” of the fashion-forward Compass travel lifestyle brand. For more
articles, tips and hot spots from Susan write her directly at susan.michelle@canyon-news.com.